Mini Cot Beds
If you're kitting out an area that is smaller or want an alternative to a traditional cot mini cot beds are a great alternative. They're designed to last up to four years old and come in a range of colors and styles.
The cozy bed from Boori was a big hit with our mum testers. It's easy to assemble and looks gorgeous. It also has numerous extra features, including teething rails as well as an storage drawer.
Style and Design
When you are choosing a cot for your baby it's easy to get swept up in the safety and specification features. But don't forget the design. You want a cot that is elegant and blends into your nursery, regardless whether it's a traditional or modern arrangement.
Obaby Maya Mini Cot Bed, our top pick for this category, is a beautiful piece that's easy to assemble and looks stunning in any room. It's also extremely sturdy and the only cot that we tested that we believed would last the test. The narrow bars make it easy to clean because there are no nooks or crannies where dust could accumulate. The lowered base is great for infants. As your baby grows more active, you can lower it even further to prevent them getting out, and the teething rails will keep them safe from their sharp teeth.
Silver Cross Nostalgia is another stunning piece. It's a beautiful sleigh-style cot which can be used from the time of birth. An extension kit, available separately, lets it be converted into a toddler bed. The three different heights will keep your child in a comfortable position as they grow, however the fiddly assembling process may put some people off. It's also expensive but it is worth it if your goal is an elegant design that will last for a long time. Tested by Gemma mom to Boden 13 months old.
Durability
When buying a mini-cot bed, the quality is important because the furniture will last until the toddlerhood. We've tested a wide selection of cot beds to ensure that they offer the highest quality of durability and are built to last. We also have looked at style and design, the latest innovations, comfort and convertability and storage as well as additional features to help you make the right choice for your family.
Whether you are looking for an elegant solution or something with a more modern twist we have uncovered the top cot beds that can fit into your nursery's decor. We have picked a range of designs and finishes that are suitable for all budgets and tastes. From simple and practical, to luxurious and expensive. We've tested several convertible cot beds to help you get the most value for money and use this furniture into your child's toddler years.
We love this gorgeous solid oak cot by Clair de Lune It is a double-framed work of art designed to be more than an area for your baby to sleep. The wood is of high quality and has been made with care to ensure long-lasting and durable. Grace is our MFM tester found the assembly to be easy and the packaging was designed to ensure that no components were left behind. This cot does come with a mattress, but you'll have to purchase it separately.
Innovation
Designed with efficiency in mind. Many mini cots come with innovative design features that optimise space and functionality. For instance, certain models have a built-in diaper change station, which makes it much easier to change your baby. This enhances the comfort of both you and your child during the diaper changing process. It also makes it safer because all the necessary items are within reach.
Other unique designs include a crib that has a built-in trundle for extra storage, or a cot that can fold down into a compact unit. These compact designs are ideal for homes with tight spaces or where the nursery doubles as a bedroom. Some models can also convert into a sofa, providing even more flexibility and function for your growing child.
In terms of safety, the majority of mini cots are designed to protect your child's wellbeing with features like side rails with safety and non-toxic finishes. This will ensure that they are safe and secure throughout their first years.
Obaby Nika is a modern, premium crib bed that comes with outstanding safety features and a fashionable design. It is smaller than its larger counterpart, but it doesn't sacrifice functionality. It has three mattress base positions for your growing baby as well as teething rails. Moreover, our reviewer found it easy to set up and move around the room once it was assembled. Its unique oval design means it is able to fit into doors that have standard frames, which is a huge benefit for stressed parents.
Comfort
When you are preparing your baby cot online's nursery, it is easy to get caught-up on safety and spec features. However, comfort is equally important. If your child is going to spend much of the time in the mini cot they choose it is crucial to ensure that they are comfortable and safe.
It's especially important if you are considering using a Moses basket as an alternative. It is recommended that babies sleep next to their parents for the first six months, so a cosy, comfortable cot will ensure they can do that while keeping them close to you.
The Great Little Trading Company Little Wren Cot Bed will be an ideal choice if are looking for a high-end bed for small spaces, however, one that allows your baby to develop and grow into a toddler. It's not cheap but it does come with a one-year warranty and is a great value for money seeing as it can be used from birth right up to toddlerhood.
The Mamas & Papas Franklin cot-bed is another option if you are seeking a cot with added features such as a drawer, teething bars and two positions that are adjustable. Our test subject Jill found it a doddle to build and she was impressed by how it fits through standard door frames. However, do bear in the mind that you'll have to purchase an oval mattress and sheets separately.
Convertability
Cot beds will last longer than standard cribs and give your child a bed from birth to toddlerhood. This makes cots more durable than cribs. They also are an economical option because you don't have to purchase a brand new bed for your child after they're old enough to use it.
Some cots and cot beds are designed to grow with your child, transforming into junior beds or even small sofa beds. The Stokke Sleepi for example can be used until age 2 and beyond with the purchase of the junior conversion kit and mattress extender (sold separately). It's easy to construct and looks gorgeous in any nursery. However, you'll need an appropriate fitted sheet that will fit a cot bed rather than a cot since the gaps between the bars are quite wide.
Try the Obaby Nika Mini Cot Bed that is suitable for babies up to four years of age. It's compact and provides an elegant look for your nursery with a textured oak effect finish. It includes three mattress positions to suit your growing baby, as well as teething rails for protection.
At Pram Centre, you'll find various stylish and innovative cots to create a cozy nursery for your child. Our collection offers a variety of bespoke designs by leading brands such as Mamas & Papas, Obaby and a host of others. Many have adjustable features that can be altered to accommodate your child's needs. You can also find various other accessories to keep your baby secure and comfortable, including a padded toddler guard to stop them from falling out or a breathable fitted cot mattress that promotes healthy sleeping habits.
Storage & Extra Features
If you're a mom-to-be looking for a cot that will last long after your little one has outgrown it, think about getting an option that converts into a toddler bed. This will save money on separate furniture for toddlers and aid your child in making the transition from their crib to a bed.
The Katie mini Sleigh cot bed from Silver Cross is an example of a cot that is compact and has built-in storage. This lets you keep extra bedding, nappies and sleepsuits in order. This is an excellent feature for the early months of your baby's life when you'll need to change them often.
Another option for parents looking for an option with storage for their cot is the Obaby Maya continental sale cot bed. The cot is modern with a 2-tone appearance and is intended to be used from birth to approximately four years old. It can be transformed into a bed for toddlers by taking off one side panel and also includes the toddler rail. The model is also available with a range of drawers under the cot.
If you're shopping for a mini cot bed check out the Pram Centre collection to discover the stunning designs available. We have options from top brands including Babymoov, Mamas & Papas and Obaby to fit the needs of every nursery. We also have a large range of nursery furniture that will fit perfectly with your cot and provide the perfect sleeping environment for your child.